SENATOR Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III has raised concerns about a P2.9 billion increase in the Department of National Defense (DND) 2025 budget, specifically questioning the allocation of funds for the Philippine Navy.
During Thursday’s budget deliberations, November 14, Pimentel grilled Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, sponsor of the DND’s P265 billion budget, seeking clarification on the rationale behind the increase.
“I noticed an increase in our committee report for the DND of P2.9 billion. How would you justify the said increase? What are the general reasons?” Pimentel inquired.
He further pressed for details regarding the Philippine Navy’s share of the increase, which amounts to P1.5 billion. “What is this, a purchase? What vessels are we going to procure? Or is this for operations?” he asked.
In response, Dela Rosa explained that the majority of the increase in the Philippine Navy’s budget will be allocated for maintenance and other operating expenses.
